Troubleshooting
Holmstrup Arborvitae problems — and how to fix them
Holmstrup Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Holmstrup') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Winter browning
Drying winter wind and frozen soil can bleach foliage; water deeply before freeze-up and shelter exposed plants.
Snow/ice splaying
Heavy snow load can splay the narrow column; tie multi-stem plants loosely and brush off heavy snow.
Bagworms
Camouflaged silk bags strip foliage; remove by hand in winter or treat young larvae in early summer.
Drought-induced interior browning
Dry spells brown inner foliage; consistent watering and mulch keep the column dense and green.
Prevent holmstrup arborvitae problems before they start
Most holmstrup arborvitae issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common arborvitae problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Holmstrup Arborvitae watering schedule
- Holmstrup Arborvitae light requirements
- Best soil mix for holmstrup arborvitae
- Holmstrup Arborvitae temperature & humidity
- Full holmstrup arborvitae care guide
Looking for holmstrup arborvitae in general rather than its problems? Read the full holmstrup arborvitae care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Holmstrup Arborvitae problems — FAQ
Why is my holmstrup arborvitae winter browning?
Drying winter wind and frozen soil can bleach foliage; water deeply before freeze-up and shelter exposed plants.
Why is my holmstrup arborvitae snow/ice splaying?
Heavy snow load can splay the narrow column; tie multi-stem plants loosely and brush off heavy snow.
Why is my holmstrup arborvitae bagworms?
Camouflaged silk bags strip foliage; remove by hand in winter or treat young larvae in early summer.
Why is my holmstrup arborvitae drought-induced interior browning?
Dry spells brown inner foliage; consistent watering and mulch keep the column dense and green.